The government’s preparations for Visit Laos Year 2012 are continuing despite recent changes to the leadership and organization of its tourism arm.
Deputy Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism Buangeun Xaphouvong confirmed that the preparations will continue as planned even though the former Lao National Tourism Administration has now merged with the Ministry of Information and Culture.
Activities for Visit Laos Year will be added to the country’s main cultural events: the Hmong New Year, the Elephant Festival in Sayabouly (February), Lao New Year in Luang Prabang (April), the Rocket Festival in Xieng Khouang (May), and the That Luang Festival in Vientiane (November).
Tourism officials say Visit Laos Year 2012 will reflect the special culture of Laos and the multi-ethnic lifestyle of its people through grand stage performances, traditional dances, and music and fashion shows.
The government and private sectors are jointly promoting the program.
Lao Association of Travel Agents President Bouakhao Phomsouvan told the Vientiane Times that Visit Laos Year aims to bring more tourists to Laos in 2012 and beyond.
He said one challenge for tourism-related businesses is the need to improve services to match international standards.
He added Laos must ensure that package tours are cheaper compared to those of other countries, so that country has a competitive edge.
Source: Vientiane Times
For more information:
Cambodia – Ministry of Tourism
China National Tourism Administration (CNTA)
Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA)
Myanmar – Ministry of Hotels and Tourism
Thailand – Ministry of Tourism and Sports
Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT)